Tampa Bay briefs

Judge fighting JQC takes medical leave

TAMPA -- Hillsborough Circuit Judge Cynthia Holloway will take a medical leave from the bench starting April 1 to undergo tests for high-blood pressure.

She said she hopes to return by the end of April. Holloway said she did not think her ongoing, highly publicized battle with the Judicial Qualifications Commission contributed to the condition. In January, the panel found her guilty of interfering in a child-custody case and other matters. She is fighting the charges. Holloway, 46, said she had a family history of high blood-pressure.

"I love my job," she said. "I hope to be back as soon as I possibly can." Circuit Judge Barbara Fleischer will take over Holloway's docket in her absence.